La Maison l’Émeraude has been working for several months to offer the first shelter resource for women in situations of domestic violence in Abitibi-Ouest. The government’s money therefore allows him to go ahead with the development of six rooms that can accommodate up to ten people.
We had submitted a project at the beginning of May to acquire a building. For us, this is a big step forward in the project.
underlines the administrator of the future shelter, Joannie Boivin.
Ms. Boivin would like to point out that the absence of a shelter in the Abitibi-Ouest territory discourages women who are victims of domestic violence in the area from seeking refuge.
« Women really find themselves at an impasse. If they have children and they don’t want to change schools or they have a job, with the price of gas, it makes no sense for them to leave and go to Amos or in Rouyn for accommodation. They therefore often remain in their violent environment. »
A first second level house
Rouyn-Noranda will see the construction of the first second-level support and shelter for women in situations of domestic violence in the region.
Ten units of different sizes will be available. The City of Rouyn-Noranda has already donated land with a tax exemption.
alternative for themwhich already manages the first-level assistance and housing resource in Rouyn-Noranda, will coordinate the new house.
We will have three and a half, four and a half and five and a half. Women can go and live there longer with their children. There is a basket of services that will also be available. There will be workers who will be on site to intervene and support the women
details the coordinator of the organization, Cathy Allen.